2 Best Skoolie Design Softwares For Conversion In 2022

1. Vanspace 3D

You can bring your bus design to real life with the help of this tried and tested Skoolie software. Design and developed by Netherlands based couple – Michelle & Will, Vanspace is a paid no-design experience required web-based tool that can work for any bus brand and suits beginners.

Features:

• Works on the Desktop app (Windows & Mac)
• Drag & drop design editor for any kind of bus brands
• 400+ pre-built furniture components (Vanspace keeps updating the latest designs in the new release)
• Pick from a plethora of colours and materials for exterior as well as interior
• Excellent customer support

Compatibility:

• Web: Yes (Windows & Mac)
• Android: No
• iOS: No

How does Vanspace work?

• Choose your bus template or create it yourself by entering internal dimensions
• Now, you can drag & drop from hundreds of components to build a perfect Skoolie. These components include living, working, sleeping, and kitchen items
• Customize your Skoolie design by adding colours, textures, and materials.
• Once done, you can preview your final design.

Why should you pick Vanspace software for Skoolie conversion?

There are different reasons to try Vanspace 3d and not a single reason to avoid it:

• Design with ease: I assume you’ve read about different kinds of 3d design software for Skoolie, but you are not a professional designer. However, you want to save money and design your own! With Vanspace, this is 101% possible. This software is custom designed to customize Vans and Bus.

• Readymade layouts: Vanspace is the only software with pre-designed Skoolie design templates such as interiors, exteriors, etc. In addition, you get the functionality to edit any template according to dimensions.

• Budget-friendly: Vanspace offers a value-for-money package compared to other 3d design softwares. In addition, you get different types of tools and guides for free.

• Users experience: The software is used by thousands of RVers globally. You can check Vanspace’s Facebook feed to check the latest created designs and their experience while building a Skoolie.

Price: Below is the list of prices with features:

I’ve also created a separate article covering in-depth information about Vanspace 3D. This will help you understand more about the software with tips and other essential information.

2. SketchUp Design App

Owned by Trimble, Sketch Up is a freemium 3D design software. This is broadly used for interior, industrial design, mechanical, theatre, game development, etc. It was founded in 1999 by Brad Schell & Joe Esch.

Thanks to the 3d axis and other features, Sketch Up can be utilized to design your dream Skoolie. Like Vanspace 3d, it works in the browser and doesn’t offer any app. The brand offers 3 paid versions of SketchUp – Shop, Pro & Studio, each version comes with additional features.

Features:

• It allows you to work on textures
• You can add lighting effects
• Offers 3d and 2d models
• You can also add animations, which is missing in Vanspace
• Used by small, medium and enterprise scale business
• Like Vanspace, It offers excellent online support

Compatibility:

• Android: No
• iOS: No
• Web: Yes (Windows & Mac)

How does SketchUp work?

Compared to Vanpasce, you will face little difficulty in designing a Skoolie. To use the software, you can use the free plan, install & sign up. As there are no pre-defined layouts, you need to design everything from scratch.

Bus Conversion Tips

• School bus size: Always decide on the bus size and sync that with your future requirements.
• Cost: Now that you’ve decided on the size, it’s time to check the cost. A good-condition school bus can cost anywhere between $1,000 to $25,000. I suggest a good-condition bus in the range of $2,500 to $6,000. This will leave a bracket to recreate and design.
• Keep recreating budget: A good conversion includes paint, interior, building materials, electrical, heating system, appliances, and toilet will add a cost up to $20,000.
• Give personal touch: Thanks to Vanspace, you will be able to design your Skoolie and add whatever you might need during camping.

What is the meaning of Skoolie?

Skoolie is a recreated version of a school bus, which can be used for travelling, camping or as an adventure vehicle. Compared to RV, a Skoolie offers more space and accommodates more adults.

How much does it cost to build a Skoolie?

A Skoolie conversion cost ranges between $20,000 to $30,000. This is the initial cost with a used bus between 20 to 40 ft, denting/painting, interiors, etc. Below is the table of average used bus prices in the USA.

• 40ft: $5,000 to $10,000
• 35ft: $5,000 to $8,000
• 25 ft: $5,000 to $7,000
• 20 ft: $3,000 to $5,000

What can be designed with Skoolie software?

A Skoolie software can be used to design given properties:

• Floor Plans
• Bus Body
• Interior design – bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, toilet, etc
• Body colour analysis

Conclusion

Designing a school bus can be hectic, but it’s good to pursue. As a beginner, first, I suggest you check different design ideas, make a plan and then start converting using any free or paid app.

FAQs

How long does it take to convert a Skoolie?

Depending if you are taking the help of 3^rd party mechanic or DIY. A Skoolie will take between 3 to 6^th months or maybe 1 year for full conversion. However, conversion time also depends on the size and features you apply.

What is the average price of a Skoolie conversion app?

The average price starts at $37 or a 1-year subscription. However, a few softwares available can be utilized if you are aware of the design.